FAQ

How much does hoof trimming cost?

Our standard rates are:

• $25 – Back hooves

• $35 – All four hooves

• $35 – Block application (if required for lameness)

Minimum booking numbers apply.
For bulls, pet cows, or small herds, please give us a call for a custom quote.

How many cows can you trim in a day?

This depends on whether we’re doing maintenance trimming or treating lame cows:

• Maintenance trimming: around 20 cows per hour (up to ~100 cows/day)

• Lame/therapeutic trimming: around 10 cows per hour (up to ~50 cows/day)

Numbers vary slightly with cow flow and milking times, but we always prioritise calm, safe handling to keep things stress-free for the cows.

How often should cows have their hooves trimmed?

Research suggests trimming twice a year, but on real NZ farms that isn’t always practical.

Every cow grows hoof differently:

• Some need trimming multiple times a season,

• Others grow slowly and only need occasional attention.

A good rule of thumb is to keep overgrown claws balanced and make sure lame cows are treated promptly.
Regular visits from a qualified trimmer are the best way to stay on top of herd hoof health.

Is hoof trimming painful for cows?

No.
The hoof horn is dead tissue — similar to nails or hair — so trimming excess horn doesn’t cause pain.

If a cow is already lame, trimming removes loose or damaged horn and relieves pressure, which helps reduce pain and speeds healing.

What happens if you don’t trim cows’ hooves?

Overgrown or unbalanced hooves put extra pressure on the claws, which can lead to:

• Lameness

• Reduced feed intake

• Loss of condition

• Lower milk production

• Trouble getting back in-calf

Keeping hooves in good shape helps cows stay comfortable, mobile, and productive.

How long does it take for a cow’s hoof to heal?

Healing time depends on the injury and how quickly it’s treated.

• Minor white line injuries, trimmed correctly and blocked, can heal in under four weeks.

• More severe or long-term lameness may take multiple visits before cows are fully comfortable again.

• If lameness goes untreated for too long, full recovery isn’t always possible.

Early trimming and treatment give the best results every time.

Are there any disadvantages to hoof trimming?

Not when it’s done properly. Hoof trimming is safe, low-stress, and a key part of preventing and treating lameness.
The only real risks come from untrained or inexperienced trimmers, such as:

• Over-trimming

• Incorrect hoof balance

• Stressful handling

• Misdiagnosing lameness issues

A qualified hoof trimmer understands hoof anatomy, technique, pressure distribution, and cow behaviour — keeping cows comfortable and improving long-term hoof health.

What equipment do you use?

We use Wopa hydraulic chutes (single-phase power), designed for:

• Low stress for cows

• Safety for the trimmer

• Consistent, efficient trimming

We trim using hoof knives and grinders, and record each cow digitally on a tablet.
You’ll receive a full treatment report within 24 hours so you can follow up with any recommended aftercare.